High SierraFairlead, Mercury/Black, 28-Inch, Fairlead

Needed to replace my 20+ year old Wilson duffel bag which was beginning to unravel. Do note I wanted a true duffel bag--not a hybrid duffel/suitcase. A true duffel bag to me has a specific shape, takes minimal storage space when not in use, packs easily, has lots of compartments, is light and compact, water resistant and has a high cool factor. I studied every one I could find online ranging from $30 to $1,200 and chose the 28" High Siera Fairlead portable 28 inch as it had all the features I want, plus one bonus I didn't know existed.I had some trepidation as the price was much lower than the other ones I was seriously considering. However, the High Sierra arrived clearly well constructed, strong and the separate container at bottom keeps my cloths tightly packed and unwrinkled. The tie down straps in the bottom section are sweet. If I don't want to pack both compartments separately I just unzip the divider and have one large expanse of space.The one "gotcha" is that the video with the guy with the red duffel bag claims there are TWO end compartments -- one on each end -- but there is only ONE, and it is on the end with the retractible handle. Maybe the newer models were modified to allow the bag to better stand on end which some complained about, but to me standing on end is not something true duffel bags do well. Regardless, this one does a better job at this than my old one did.I especially like the strong material constructuon and the sturdy telescoping handle which gladly comes out much farther than the video shows. It wheels itself along very nicely and with good stability.I couldn't be happier with the High Sierra except maybe for that second external compartment I was expecting, but the one external compartment is much larger than expected and will suit my needs.Good job High Sierra!

This is a nice large duffle like I wanted. The main packing area is split where you can put shoes on bottom (or dirty clothes) and then zip that part closed internally and put other things on top of that. I do wish that 1. It wasn’t so tippy. If you aren’t filled to capacity it will need to be leaned against something if you want to stand it up. I forgive this a little because it is a duffle not a hard sided square suitcase. 2. That it had backpack straps so I could wear it when walking through the airport with car seats and other carry-ons or even holding a child. Another thing to keep in mind, it holds A LOT BUT that means if you are flying and you stuff it to capacity you will most likely be WAY over the 50 lb limit for most airlines. Don’t get stuck without another way to carry things should this happen. Weigh it before you leave for airport, or have enough room in your carry-on should you need to take some stuff out.

Good use of space.Enough room for 10 days of clothing ,plus walking sticks and 3 pair shoes.And toiletries! Very sturdy

There is a compartment along the back perfect for packing cubes of clothes. Puffier or oversized items and toiletry lots can go in the duffle portion over that. The top pocket is great for items you want to reach quickly. The bag was balanced and didn’t tip over. I’ve never had room to spare before. It was perfect for a military flight for a week away where my usual flowery hard sided suitcase seemed out of place.

Not to big for airline and all the room I needed. Love the upper and lower compartments.